This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Cincinnati chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.
By Olivia Harris
With makeup trends ever-changing, there are always plenty of new products dropping that are sure to catch the internet’s attention. In 2025, we saw the rise of science-backed skincare, an abundance of lippie products, and an overall minimal approach to beauty. It seemed as though people were doing more–like red-light therapy, at-home lash-lifts, and self-tanner–in order to do less when they woke up in the morning.
We saw a new mindfulness about overconsumption and a culture that could be moving overall into the “less is more” approach. Yet even with these views about spending less, we will continue to see plenty of new releases in 2026, still catering to this minimalist beauty approach. While not all of these are new releases, check out my top beauty picks for 2026.
Makeup
Kaja Jelly Charm Lip Stain: This lip stain, packaged as a mini key chain with charms, continues the lippie trends of 2025. Embodying the minimal makeup routines, this product can be used as both a lipstick and blush. There’s nothing cuter than a bag charm that is both fun and functional.
Flower Knows Sweetie Bear Palette: Flower Knows has recently gone viral on TikTok for its elegant packaging and unique concepts. Having yet to try something from this brand, practically all of their products are on my wishlist.
Skincare
Rare Beauty Mousse to Oil: This ultra-hydrating body oil feels weightless with its mousse-like texture and application. Rare Beauty’s popularity will continue into 2026, expanding beyond just viral liquid blushes.
COSRX Skin Barrier Cream: We’ve already heard of the importance of protecting your skin barrier, and in 2026, we will see products catering directly to that need. From the brand that brought us the Snail Mucin Serum, I’m sure their new line won’t disappoint.
Peach & Lily Glass Skin Kit: While this line has been around for some time, I have yet to hear many people promote Peach & Lily. With the popularity of glass skin and minimal makeup routines, this is the perfect kit for smooth skin before makeup.
Haircare
Being Mega Moisture Mask: Being Haircare is a Seoul-based company that makes products specially designed for every hair type, and includes a hair quiz on their website. Their bold, vibrant packaging definitely called out to me when I saw this at Walmart (because who doesn’t love beauty on a budget).
Not Your Mother’s Aura Shampoo: As a fan of their dry shampoo, I was excited to see the brand come out with a new line of shampoos and conditioners, targeted at four different hair concerns. I have yet to hear a bad review for any of the brand’s products, so I hope this will live up to my expectations!
Amika Reset Pink Charcoal Cleansing Oil: Amika recently became available at Ulta, and I’ve been dying to try one of their products. As someone who uses a lot of hair products, this oil-to-foam cleanser would be the perfect way to clear out all that buildup.
Fragrance
Dior Rosy Glow Perfume: This one is definitely way above the budget (as are most perfumes), but I can’t help but be intrigued by the new Dior perfume line inspired by their iconic lip oils. My favorite time of the year is usually the Sephora sales, when I can snag some of these pricier items on my wishlist.
Sabrina Carpenter Lemon Pie Perfume: I simply can’t resist these adorable perfumes from one of my top Spotify artists! I’m usually someone who goes for a vanilla-scented perfume, but I’ve heard that this one smells delicious.
Skylar Boardwalk Delight: Speaking of vanilla perfumes, this one by Love Island star Leah Kateb is definitely at the top of my list! From the minimal yet colorful packaging to the glowing reviews, I’m eager to try one of Leah’s perfumes.
Whether 2026 is the year of minimal “no-makeup” makeup, full glam, or something totally new, don’t let the constantly evolving trends dictate your wishlist. What new releases make you excited? Whether it’s trending or not, 2026 will be the year I am more mindful of my purchases, and I urge you to do the same. I want my wishlist to be items that I am truly interested in, not just whatever product an influencer on TikTok is pushing. Here’s to a new year of exciting and innovative new beauty products!
